Tuesday, September 21
First day out of the ICU – and it is so nice to be “unhooked”! No more IV's! (Still a picc line, but no tethers!) Sydney had a great day today, she was feeling much better (no stomach pain).
The rehab director told us Sydney would enter rehab either Wednesday or Thursday. Sydney is excited. The director explained that the amount of time in rehab completely depends on the individual situation, but it may take about 3 weeks to learn wheelchair skills and basic self-care skills (getting dressed, getting out of bed into the chair, getting to the shower, etc.) If Sydney shows promise with leg mobility, it will take much longer to work on mobility and walking skills. We told her we are expecting a longer rehab! :)
Sydney's aunt brought a nice framed verse from the hymn “How Firm a Foundation”:
“Fear not, I am with thee oh be not dismayed
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid
I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand
Upheld by my righteous omnipotent hand.”
Everyone seems so inspired and provides such strength and encouragement!
We have teased Sydney about how she will set off the airport security system with her new titanium back; and after we took a peak at her incision today, we teased her about having a giant zipper on her back! The incision is down the entire length of her back and is stapled together, so it looks like a big zipper!
When physical therapy came, they found some response in Sydney's hip flexors and quads, and ability in her left foot to slightly flex and extend (with intense concentration – what a workout!!). She is continuing to struggle with her right foot, and cannot wiggle her toes or move her foot. They encouraged her to continue working on it. When a nerve pathway is damaged, it is sometimes possible for the body to create a new pathway. (You could focus your prayers on this). Sydney practiced sitting again today – she is getting good at it!
We hung up a bright, colorful poster the young women in Sydney's neighborhood made for her, and Grandma read her notes, letters and comments you have all sent in, which even made Grandma cry! Thank you for the great support!
Yesterday Sydney was cheered up by a visit from Bishop Starley, and today we were grateful for a visit from President Glade, who shared an inspiring story, some wonderful counsel, and gave her a wonderful blessing.
Thanks everyone! More tomorrow!
